As a beauty editor, I'm rarely taken aback by the latest 'miracle' ingredient. Yet, as we approach 2026, one component is dominating dermatology journals, clinic consultations, and the group chats of beauty aficionados everywhere: PDRN.
What is PDRN and Why is it Everywhere?
Short for polydeoxyribonucleotide, PDRN first captured attention as an injectable treatment sourced from wild salmon DNA. It has since evolved into a revered solution for enhancing skin quality. Unlike fillers or neurotoxins, it works by repairing the skin at a cellular level, triggering the body's natural healing response to boost collagen, improve elasticity, and promote regeneration.
"Rejuran is amazing because it is actually wild salmon DNA, so the fragments are stronger and it is just a far superior product," explained cosmetic nurse injector Eleanore Quadri-Taylor, who introduced the treatment to her UK clinic in 2025. She added that formulas now target specific concerns like the under-eye area and acne-prone skin.
The significant drawback has been cost and commitment. Professional injectable treatments typically start from around $1,000 (£800 approx.) for the eye area alone, exceeding $1,500 for the full face, and require an initial course of three sessions. Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian have hailed it as a 'holy grail', noting results that build progressively.
The Rise of At-Home Topical PDRN Products
Now, a new wave of potent at-home products promises similar glass-like results without the needles or the hefty price tag. The major challenge for topical PDRN is molecular size—these large molecules don't easily penetrate intact skin. Brands overcome this by using lower concentrations for surface-level repair or by fragmenting the molecules for better absorption, especially when paired with microneedling.
After testing numerous products over the past year, I've ranked them by disclosed PDRN strength (measured in Parts Per Million or PPM) to guide your choices.
The PDRN Product Line-Up: From Gentle Support to Clinical Strength
Entry-Level Hydration: The Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum ($34/£27 approx.) contains 100 PPM (0.01%). It acts more as a superb hyaluronic acid serum, offering hydration and barrier support rather than deep repair.
Viral Favourite: The Dr Reju-All Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Cream ($57.95/£46 approx.) at 1,200 PPM is marketed as the 'optimal' concentration. It's a soothing gel-cream ideal for nightly use around delicate eyes.
Serious Repair Tier: At 5,000 PPM, you find Genabelle's PDRN Vita Toning Ampoule ($45/£36) and Rejuran's Turnover Ampoule ($63/£50). Rejuran's formula uses patented C-PDRN technology for enhanced absorption, with a thick, cocooning texture that delivers overnight repair.
High-Performance Formulas: Around the 10,000 PPM mark, Medicube's PDRN Pink Peptide Serum ($43/£34) (available in rose or salmon-derived versions) and the Heveblue Salmon Caring Centella Ampoule ($48/£38) excel. The latter combines rich hydration with centella's calming benefits.
Clinical-Strength Topicals: For the highest concentrations, Swanicoco's PDRN Hydrating Repair Ampoule ($82/£65) at 20,000 PPM and Genabelle's PDRN 3% Hyper Boost Ampoule ($65/£52) at a staggering 30,000 PPM lead the pack. These are best used after microneedling to maximise penetration.
The Verdict on At-Home PDRN
To be clear, no topical product can fully replicate professional Rejuran injections. However, as part of a considered routine—particularly when paired with microneedling to create micro-channels—at-home PDRN can significantly improve hydration, texture, and overall skin resilience.
If 2025 was defined by trends like slugging, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of intelligent repair and long-term regeneration. While the concept of salmon DNA in your skincare might seem unusual, your skin is only interested in one thing: the remarkable results.
